E-Rate for Bilingual Education

What Every School Needs to Know

How E-Rate funding boosts internet access and digital equity for bilingual and ELL students. Explore how schools can use it to support language learning.

Why E-Rate Matters for Bilingual and ELL Students

Equitable education goes beyond classroom access—it includes internet connectivity and digital tools. For bilingual and English Language Learner (ELL) students, E-Rate funding helps bridge the digital divide by supporting broadband and technology in schools. In this post, we explore how the E-Rate program supports digital equity and enhances bilingual education outcomes.

What Is E-Rate and How Does It Help Schools?

The E-Rate program (Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund) helps U.S. schools and libraries access affordable internet and telecommunications. Managed by the FCC through the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), E-Rate provides funding in two main categories:

Category One: Broadband internet and data transmission services to connect schools and libraries.
Category Two: Internal connections like Wi-Fi networks, routers, switches, and basic maintenance.

E-Rate discounts range from 20% to 90%, based on student poverty levels and location (urban vs. rural). These funds are crucial for increasing digital learning opportunities for underserved student populations, including ELL and bilingual learners.

Closing the Digital Divide for Bilingual and ELL Students with E-Rate

Students from low-income and limited English-speaking households are more likely to face challenges with digital access. According to a 2020 Common Sense Media report, 30% of U.S. K–12 students lacked high-speed broadband or devices for learning.

ELL and bilingual students especially rely on digital tools for language development and academic progress. Without strong internet access, they struggle to engage with language learning platforms, access instructional materials, and participate in remote or hybrid learning. E-Rate helps schools equip these learners with the tools they need to succeed.

How Schools Can Use E-Rate Funding to Support Bilingual and ELL Education

E-Rate funding can play a pivotal role in strengthening bilingual and English Language Learner (ELL) education by improving access to vital digital tools and infrastructure. Schools can strategically use E-Rate discounts to:

Enhance Internet Access: Equip classrooms with high-speed internet to enable consistent access to language learning platforms, translation tools, and digital curriculum.
Upgrade Internal Networks: Strengthen Wi-Fi coverage and internal broadband connections to ensure uninterrupted access to digital content across all learning environments.
Install Eligible Network Equipment: Invest in routers, switches, wireless access points, and other eligible networking hardware to build a reliable tech foundation for bilingual instruction (Source: Universal Service Administrative Company).

By targeting these areas, schools can create equitable, connected learning spaces where bilingual and ELL students can thrive academically and linguistically.

Best Practices for Schools Applying for E-Rate to Enhance Bilingual Education

To maximize the impact of E-Rate funding for bilingual and ELL programs, schools should follow these best practices:

Assess Technology Gaps: Evaluate current infrastructure and identify where digital access is falling short—especially for bilingual learners.
Create a Bilingual Tech Plan: Develop a targeted technology integration plan that explains how E-Rate-funded services will directly support bilingual education and language acquisition.
Involve Key Stakeholders: Engage bilingual educators, IT teams, administrators, and parents to ensure the plan meets both instructional and cultural needs.
Ensure E-Rate Compliance: Stay informed about E-Rate eligibility rules, application timelines, and documentation requirements to avoid delays or funding issues.

Proactive planning ensures E-Rate investments are strategically aligned with the unique needs of multilingual learners.

E-Rate Success Stories: How Bilingual and ELL Programs Thrive with Federal Funding

Across the U.S., K–12 schools are showing how E-Rate funding for bilingual education leads to real progress in language acquisition, digital equity, and student achievement. These case studies of bilingual and ELL programs highlight how targeted investments in internet infrastructure and educational technology can transform outcomes for English learners.

📍Utah’s Dual Language Immersion Model: A Statewide Success in Bilingual Education

Since 2009, Utah has been a national leader in dual language education. Through a statewide initiative, students receive 50% of their instruction in English and 50% in a target language (Spanish, French, Portuguese, Chinese, and more). This model has grown to serve over 40,000 students across 160 schools.

Why it works:

Strong state support and leadership
Emphasis on early immersion (starting in 1st grade)
Use of digital tools and media to support both language tracks

Results:

Students in the program consistently perform at or above grade level in core subjects.
Cognitive benefits include improved executive functioning and mental flexibility.

“Utah’s program shows that bilingualism can be nurtured systemically when backed by strong digital and policy infrastructure.” – Dr. Gregg Roberts, architect of Utah’s DLI Program

📍Oakland International High School: Supporting Immigrant and ELL Students with Tech and Project-Based Learning

Oakland International High School (OIHS) is a model for serving recent immigrants and English Language Learners (ELLs). The school enrolls students from over 30 countries, speaking more than 30 languages.

Why it works:

Curriculum designed around project-based learning
Technology-infused instruction to support all language levels
Cultural competency and inclusion as core values

Results:

OIHS boasts a high graduation rate among ELLs.
Students report increased confidence in both English skills and academic subjects.

“When students feel seen and supported, language acquisition accelerates.” – OIHS Educator, School Profile

📍IDRA’s Bilingual School Study: E-Rate Infrastructure in High-Performing ESL Programs

The Intercultural Development Research Association (IDRA) conducted a multi-year analysis of bilingual programs nationwide and identified 10 high-performing schools. Their research highlights key elements of effective programs for English learners.

What these schools share:

Strong principal leadership with clear program goals
Collaboration between ESL and general education staff
Smart use of E-Rate-supported infrastructure to improve digital learning

Results:

LEP (Limited English Proficiency) students at these schools consistently outperformed peers in both English and home language assessments.

“Technology doesn’t replace good teaching, but it amplifies it—especially in multilingual classrooms.” – Dr. María “Cuca” Robledo Montecel, IDRA President

📍Early Childhood Bilingual Programs: How E-Rate Technology Supports Language Development

A 2024 joint report by the Children’s Equity Project and The Century Foundation looked at high-quality dual language programs for young children (infants to 2nd grade). The study focused on classrooms that used both English and a partner language in early learning environments.

Key findings:

Dual language learners in these programs met or exceeded math and socio-emotional milestones more often than peers in English-only settings.
Classrooms used E-Rate-supported broadband access for interactive literacy tools, bilingual story apps, and family engagement platforms.

“When children see their culture and language honored from the beginning, the benefits last a lifetime.” – Rebecca Berlin, Children’s Equity Project

📍National Survey: How E-Rate Funding Drives Success for English Language Learners

While the E-Rate program doesn’t target bilingual programs exclusively, its infrastructure has laid the foundation for their success.

A 2024 national survey revealed:

94% of school districts say E-Rate is “essential” to their internet connectivity.
89% apply for E-Rate every year, with many citing bandwidth needs for language learning platforms like Rosetta Stone, Imagine Learning, and Google Translate.

“E-Rate is the digital lifeline for every learner—especially those who need extra language support.” – Kristina Ishmael, Former Deputy Director, U.S. Dept. of Education

📍What These E-Rate Success Stories Reveal About Digital Equity and Bilingual Education

These success stories demonstrate that E-Rate is more than just an infrastructure program—it’s a catalyst for equity. When schools use funding to enable strong bilingual instruction, particularly in digital environments, English learners don’t just catch up—they thrive.

If your school or district is serving a growing ELL population, consider how E-Rate can be strategically applied not just for connectivity, but for curriculum enrichment and language equity.

Conclusion: How E-Rate Enhances Bilingual Education and Digital Equity for ELLs

E-Rate funding is a powerful tool for supporting bilingual education and closing the digital divide for English Language Learners (ELLs). By strategically investing in internet infrastructure, devices, and digital tools, schools can foster inclusive learning environments that promote language development and academic success.

🔗Need help applying for E-Rate to support your bilingual or ELL education programs?

✅ Book a free consultation with OneTelGEM to get expert guidance on maximizing your E-Rate benefits and building a connected, multilingual learning environment.

📌 Frequently Asked Questions: How E-Rate Funding Supports Bilingual Education and ELL Success

What is the E-Rate program?

The E-Rate program, provides discounts to assist schools and libraries in obtaining affordable telecommunications and internet access. Administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the FCC, E-Rate offers two categories of funding:

Category One: Services that provide broadband connectivity to schools and libraries, such as data transmission services and internet access.
Category Two: Services that deliver internet access within schools and libraries, including internal connections, basic maintenance of internal connections, and managed internal broadband services.

Discounts range from 20% to 90% of the costs of eligible services, depending on the level of poverty and whether the school or library is located in an urban or rural area.

How does E-Rate support bilingual education?

E-Rate funding can play a pivotal role in supporting bilingual education by facilitating access to essential technological resources. Schools can utilize E-Rate discounts to:

Enhance Internet Connectivity: Ensure that classrooms have robust internet access to support online language learning tools and resources.
Upgrade Internal Networks: Implement or improve internal connections, such as Wi-Fi networks, to provide seamless access to digital content throughout the school.
Acquire Necessary Equipment: Purchase eligible networking equipment like routers, switches, and access points to support the technological infrastructure required for bilingual education programs.

By investing in these areas, schools can create an environment conducive to language development and academic success for bilingual and ELL students.

Who is eligible for E-Rate funding?

Most public and private K-12 schools, as well as public libraries, are eligible for E-Rate funding. Eligibility is determined based on specific criteria, including the school’s or library’s location and the percentage of students eligible for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), which helps determine the level of discount the organization can receive.

What types of services and equipment are eligible under E-Rate?

E-Rate covers a range of services and equipment, including:

- Telecommunications Services: Traditional telephone services, including local and long-distance calling.
- Internet Access: Broadband internet services to ensure connectivity.
- Internal Connections: Network equipment like routers, switches, and cabling necessary for internal internet distribution.
- Basic Maintenance: Support for the upkeep of eligible internal connections.
- Managed Internal Broadband Services: Services provided by third parties for the operation, management, and monitoring of internal broadband networks.

For a detailed list of eligible services, refer to the USAC Eligible Services List.

How can schools apply for E-Rate funding?

The application process involves several steps:

Determine Eligibility: Confirm that your institution meets the eligibility criteria.
Submit FCC Form 470: Announce the services you seek and open a competitive bidding process.
Evaluate Bids and Select Providers: Choose the most cost-effective service provider.
Submit FCC Form 471: Apply for discounts on the selected services.
Receive Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL): USAC reviews your application and issues a funding decision.
Begin Services and Invoicing: Once approved, services can commence, and invoicing can begin.

For comprehensive guidance, visit the USAC E-Rate Applicant Process.

What challenges do schools face in utilizing E-Rate for bilingual education?

While E-Rate provides significant support, schools may encounter challenges such as:

Complex Application Process: Navigating the multi-step application can be daunting without proper guidance.
Limited Awareness: Some schools may not fully understand the scope of services and equipment covered under E-Rate.
Integration with Educational Goals: Aligning technological upgrades with specific bilingual education objectives requires careful planning.

To overcome these challenges, schools should engage stakeholders, develop comprehensive technology plans, and seek expert assistance when necessary.

How does E-Rate contribute to closing the digital divide for ELL students?

E-Rate plays a crucial role in bridging the digital divide by:

Providing Affordable Internet Access: Ensuring that schools serving low-income and ELL students have the necessary bandwidth for digital learning.
Supporting Technological Infrastructure: Facilitating the acquisition of essential networking equipment to create connected learning environments.
Enabling Access to Digital Resources: Allowing students to utilize online language learning platforms, educational content, and communication tools.

By addressing these areas, E-Rate helps create equitable educational opportunities for ELL students.

Additional Resources

- OneTel Blog: The Next Chapter for E-Rate
- US Department of Education: The Office of English Language Acquisition, Language Enhancement, and Academic Achievement for Limited English Proficient Students
- OneTel Blog: E-Rate in Action
- Intercultural Development Research Association: Transforming Education by Putting Children First
- OneTel Blog: Expanding Educational Equity